What Do Great Pyrenees Die From [9 Hints]

Have you ever wondered what could reduce the lifespan of a majestic Great Pyrenees dog?

While these fluffy canines are known for their resilience and long lives, there are some health conditions that can afflict them and cut their journey short.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common causes of mortality in your Great Pyrenees and what you can do to help your furry friend live a happy, healthy life.

What Do Great Pyrenees Die From

Great Pyrenees are prone to certain health issues that can lead to death which include cancer particularly osteosarcoma or bone cancer, inherited heart conditions such as subaortic stenosis, and inherited neurological disease called Neuronal Degeneration (NDG) which has been reported in Great Pyrenees dogs, which can lead to death at a young age.

Other health issues that can be common in Great Pyrenees, as well as many other breeds, include arthritis, ear infections, and dental problems.

It’s important to keep your Great Pyrenees up to date on their vet visits and to monitor them for any signs of health issues.

Causes of Death in Great Pyrenees

Here are some common causes of death in Great Pyrenees.

1. Cancer

In the Great Pyrenees, cancer is sadly a prevalent cause of death.

This breed has a reputation for being more prone to cancers including osteosarcoma, lymphoma, and hemangiosarcoma.

While the precise cause of cancer in dogs is not always known, elements including genetics, nutrition, and exposure to the environment can all play a role in its occurrence.

While keeping a healthy lifestyle can help lower the risk, genetics can play a part in the development of cancer.

This includes maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding pollutants, and getting regular exercise.

Also, the likelihood of success might be increased by early identification and treatment.

2. Kidney Disease

In the Great Pyrenees, kidney illness is a common cause of mortality.

Age, genetics, food, and other factors can all contribute to this illness.

Weight loss, increased thirst, and decreased appetite are all possible symptoms.

Dietary control, medicine, and in extreme situations, dialysis or transplantation are all possible forms of treatment.

3. Bloating

Due to their big stature and deep chest, Great Pyrenees are susceptible to bloat, a dangerous and sometimes deadly illness.

Gas builds up in the stomach, which twists as a result, cutting off the organs’ blood supply.

Bloat requires rapid veterinarian care and is characterized by restlessness, panting, and an enlarged belly.

Avoid giving your Great Pyrenees huge meals and instead give them smaller, more regular meals throughout the day to lower the chance of bloat.

Don’t feed your dog right before or right after you exercise them, and don’t let them drink a lot of water at once.

If your dog does get bloat, go to the veterinarian immediately.

4. Heart diseases

Heart illness, especially dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and mitral valve dysfunction, is a risk factor for Great Pyrenees. Heart failure can result from these illnesses and be deadly.

Coughing, exhaustion, and breathing difficulties are signs of heart disease in dogs, and treatment options include medication and dietary adjustments.

Frequent veterinarian check-ups can aid in the early detection of cardiac disease, and treatment options may include medication, nutritional adjustments, and lifestyle changes including lowering stress levels and avoiding strenuous activity.

5. Respiratory Issues

The respiratory diseases pneumonia and bronchitis, which can cause respiratory failure and even death, can affect Great Pyrenees.

Coughing, wheezing, and breathing problems are examples of symptoms.

If you think your dog could be having respiratory problems, it’s critical to get them medical attention right away.

6. Lyme Disease

The bacterial illness Lyme disease may be spread to Great Pyrenees through tick bites.

Fever, sluggishness, and joint discomfort are possible symptoms.

For serious consequences including renal failure, heart disease, and neurological problems to be avoided, early identification and treatment are essential.

7. Infection

Many illnesses, including bacterial and viral infections, can affect your Great Pyrenees.

Parvovirus, a highly contagious virus that assaults the digestive system, distemper, a viral infection that affects the respiratory, digestive, and neurological systems, and kennel cough are common infectious disorders in Great Pyrenees (a highly contagious respiratory infection).

Several infectious infections may be avoided with vaccinations and routine veterinary visits.

8. Liver Disease

While it can be afflicted by illness, the liver is essential to a Great Pyrenees dog’s general health.

Infections, poisons, and heredity are just a few of the causes of liver disease.

Hepatitis and cirrhosis are two common forms of liver illness in canines.

Cirrhosis occurs when healthy liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue (inflammation of the liver).

Jaundice (a yellowing of the skin and eyes), vomiting, and diarrhea are symptoms of liver disease in Great Pyrenees dogs.

9. Neurological Disorders

In a Great Pyrenees dog’s body, the nervous system is in charge of numerous essential processes, including movement and coordination.

Injuries, infections, and hereditary factors can all contribute to neurological problems.

Seizures, epilepsy, and spinal cord injury are typical canine neurological conditions.

Tremors, loss of balance, and weakness might be indicators of neurological conditions in Great Pyrenees dogs.

Common health issues in Great Pyrenees

Here are some of the most common health concerns observed in Great Pyrenees:

1. Hip Dysplasia: This hereditary condition occurs when a dog’s hip joint does not align properly with the hip socket.
2. Elbow Dysplasia: This is another hereditary condition that affects the elbow joint of a dog.
3. Osteosarcoma: It is a type of bone cancer that mostly affects the legs and the long bones.
4. Bloat: This is a life-threatening condition that can occur in deep-chested breeds like Great Pyrenees. It happens when the stomach fills up with gas or food and twists.
5. Ear Infections: Great Pyrenees have long, floppy ears which can trap moisture and dirt, making them prone to ear infections.
6. Eye Problems: Great Pyrenees can develop eye problems such as cataracts, entropion, ectropion, and glaucoma.
7. Allergies: Great Pyrenees can suffer from allergies, which can cause skin issues, itching, and other related problems.
8. Hypothyroidism: It is a medical condition that affects the thyroid gland, which can lead to a range of symptoms such as weight gain, lethargy, and hair loss.
9. Heart disease: Great Pyrenees can suffer from heart problems like Dilated Cardiomyopathy, which can lead to heart failure.

Ways to prevent health issues in Great Pyrenees

Here are some common ways to prevent health issues in Great Pyrenees:

1. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian: This will help identify health issues early and provide necessary treatment before it becomes a major problem.
2. Proper nutrition: Feeding your Great Pyrenees a balanced and healthy diet can help prevent various health issues, such as obesity and malnutrition.
3. Regular exercise: Ensuring your Great Pyrenees receives enough exercise can help prevent health problems associated with being overweight or sedentary.
4. Grooming: Proper grooming can help prevent skin issues and infections, as well as keep their coat looking healthy.
5. Keeping up with vaccinations: Vaccinations can help prevent various diseases, such as parvovirus, which are common in Great Pyrenees.
6. Training and socialization: Proper training and socialization can prevent behavior issues, which can lead to health concerns such as anxiety and stress-related illnesses.
7. Regular teeth cleaning: Dental health is vital for overall health, and regular teeth cleaning can prevent dental diseases in Great Pyrenees.
8. Providing a safe and secure environment: Great Pyrenees are known to be protective, and providing a safe and secure environment can prevent injuries due to escaping or getting into dangerous situations.
9. Knowing the breed-specific health concerns: Great Pyrenees are prone to certain health concerns, such as hip dysplasia and bloat. Knowing about these issues and taking precautions can help prevent these health problems.

Learn more about separation anxiety in Great Pyrenees.

Related questions

What are the common health issues that Great Pyrenees face?

Great Pyrenees are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues.

Some of the most common health issues that Great Pyrenees face include hip dysplasia, bloat (also known as gastric torsion), and congenital heart problems.

Can Great Pyrenees develop allergies?

Yes, Great Pyrenees can develop allergies just like any other breed.

Some common allergens that may affect Great Pyrenees include pollen, dust mites, and certain foods.

If you suspect that your dog may have allergies, it’s important to take them to a vet for diagnosis and treatment.

How long do Great Pyrenees typically live?

Great Pyrenees are a relatively long-lived breed, with an average lifespan of around 10–12 years.

However, like all living creatures, individual lifespans can vary depending on genetics, environmental factors, and overall health care.

What is bloat, and how do I know if my Great Pyrenees has it?

Bloat, also known as gastric torsion, is a potentially life-threatening condition that affects many large dog breeds, including Great Pyrenees.

It occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, cutting off blood flow to the stomach and other organs.

Signs of bloat can include a distended or swollen belly, restlessness, and drooling.

If you suspect your Great Pyrenees may have bloat, it’s important to seek immediate veterinary care.

How can I prevent my Great Pyrenees from developing health problems?

While it’s impossible to completely prevent all health problems in any breed of dog, there are steps you can take to help keep your Great Pyrenees healthy.

This includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, regular veterinary check-ups, and keeping up-to-date with vaccinations and preventative medications such as flea and tick control.

Are there any genetic health problems that Great Pyrenees are particularly prone to?

Yes, just like many purebred dogs, Great Pyrenees can be prone to certain genetic health problems. Some of the most common genetic health

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Great Pyrenees are generally healthy dogs with long lifespans.

However, like all living beings, they are susceptible to certain health issues that can lead to their demise.

As a responsible pet owner, it is important to be aware of these potential health problems and take preventative measures to ensure your furry friend lives a long and happy life.

Regular vet check-ups, a healthy diet, and plenty of exercises can go a long way in keeping your Great Pyrenees healthy and happy for years to come.